Squalane oil has secured a vital place in the skincare industry, admired for its ability to moisturize, protect, and renew the skin. Derived from squalene, a lipid organically created in human skin cells, squalane oil is a hydrogenated version of squalene, offering enhanced stability. That said, not all squalane oil is created equal. Its derivation plays a significant role in determining its moral standing and eco-friendliness.
Understanding the Sources of Squalane Oil
Squalane oil can be obtained from multiple key sources: animal-derived and botanical-based materials. The decision between these sources is essential to consider for ethics and sustainability.
Animal-Based Squalane Oil
Historically, squalane oil was frequently extracted from shark-derived squalene. Sharks are an abundant provider of squalene, which is converted into squalane oil. Sadly, this practice has severe ethical consequences. Millions of sharks are killed every year for their livers, leading to the depletion of shark populations and disrupting marine ecosystems. In addition, the practices used are unsustainable and have been widely criticized.
Botanical-Based Squalane Oil
In contrast, vegetable-based squalane oil is a more responsible and environmentally conscious alternative. It is sourced from plants, avoiding reliance on animal slaughter. This option ensures humane sourcing but also produces a premium-grade product for skincare applications.
Plant-Based Squalane Oil: Olive vs. Sugarcane
Among vegetable-sourced squalane oils, a pair of sources stand out: olive-derived squalane oil and sugarcane-based squalane oil. While these two offer vegan options, their eco-friendliness is not the same.
The Benefits of Olive-Derived Squalane Oil
Olive-derived squalane oil is widely regarded as better for sustainable purposes. Olives are a renewable resource that require less water. On top of that, olive squalane oil retains equally excellent hydrating and skin-rejuvenating benefits as other plant-based oils.
Why Sugarcane Squalane Oil Falls Short
In contrast, sugarcane-derived squalane oil is associated with notable issues. Sugarcane cultivation requires large quantities of water and often results in environmental degradation. As a result, it becomes unsustainable than olive-derived options.
The Skincare Benefits of Squalane Oil
Squalane oil offers countless advantages for all skin types. Here’s why it is so highly regarded in skincare:
Skin-Quenching Properties: Squalane oil seeps efficiently into the skin, delivering profound hydration without leaving a greasy residue.
Perfect for Combination Skin: Its lightweight texture ensures it’s ideal for those with combination skin.
Anti-Aging Properties: Rich in antioxidants, squalane oil reduces the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines while guarding against free radicals.
Calming for Irritated Skin: Its natural formulation reduces redness, keeping it ideal for reactive skin.
Final Thoughts
Whether you have oily, combination skin, squalane oil delivers unparalleled results. By choosing plant-based options, specifically olive-derived squalane oil, you support eco-consciousness but also treat your skin to one of the best solutions available.